What's Happening?
In 2025, U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters, known as lakers, transported 71.3 million tons of cargo, marking an 8.9% decrease from the previous year. This decline also placed the cargo movement 8.1% below the fleet's five-year average. The decrease was
observed across most commodities, with iron ore shipments dropping by 10.8% to 39.1 million tons and coal cargos decreasing by 12% to 6.5 million tons. Limestone shipments fell by 4.7% to 20.1 million tons, while cement cargos saw a 1% reduction. Sand and grain shipments experienced significant declines of 26.5% and 13.1%, respectively. The only exception was salt shipments, which increased by 4.1%.
Why It's Important?
The decline in cargo movement on the Great Lakes has significant implications for the U.S. shipping industry and regional economies reliant on these commodities. The reduction in iron ore and coal shipments could affect industries such as steel manufacturing and energy production, potentially leading to economic slowdowns in regions dependent on these sectors. The decrease in limestone and cement shipments might impact construction activities, while the drop in sand and grain could affect agricultural and food supply chains. This trend highlights the challenges faced by the shipping industry, including potential impacts from environmental regulations, economic shifts, and changes in demand.
